DAYTON, Ohio - An electronic listening device receiver on display in the Office of Special Investigations exhibit in the Cold War Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)

DAYTON, Ohio - An electronic listening device receiver on display in the Office of Special Investigations exhibit in the Cold War Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)

The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is the U.S. Air Force's criminal investigative service, and it plays an important role in protecting the USAF. OSI battles a wide variety of threats. Most OSI investigations focus on crimes such as murder, burglary and theft, drug and sex crimes, and similar dangers to USAF order and discipline. OSI vigilance also protects the public interest against economic crimes such as fraud and mismanagement of Air Force property. Electronic assaults on defense computer systems are a growing OSI concern, as are efforts to steal and exploit critical defense technology.

OSI employs a wide range of highly trained specialists -- forensic scientists, computer experts, behavioral specialists, polygraphers and other analysts -- to stay ahead of the various criminal and foreign intelligence threats the USAF faces. OSI is present on all active-duty Air Force bases and at other operating locations worldwide, where it conducts liaison activities with other investigative and law enforcement agencies to protect USAF people and property.